The Edward Effect

Describes the phenomena in which a fictional character is so ridonkulously swoon-worthy, he causes all real guys to be a total disappointment for any girl who has read about and/or watched him.

 

Okay, so it's fun getting lost in a love story, but it can also be a massive let down when reality doesn't quite match up to the romances we watch and read about. But just as we don't want to be compared to the unrealistic perfection of big screen ladies, it's only fair that we don't do the same to boys (er, compare them to the guys, that is - not the ladies). These hotties are amazing in theory, but real life is a bit different. Some things just don't belong off screen...

 

Edward Cullen (Twilight)

He's not the first, but he's most definitely the worst offender. Edward's impact has been so massive, he pretty much single-handedly destroyed all hope of any guy ever living up to his girlfriend's expectations. Edward is the perfect man, after all. Except for, you know, the whole vampire-who-thirsts-for-human-blood thing. But, even if we could look past that (and let's face it, we totally would), his uber-protective nature is just a little bit much. Sure, we go gaga when he follows Bella around and saves her life, and even when he sneaks into her window without her knowledge - every single night. But if a guy did that in real life, it would just be creepy. And a crime.

 

Noah Calhoun (The Notebook)

They say first love is always super strong, but Noah takes it to a whole new level. He is so devoted to Allie that he climbs a ferris wheel to get a date with her, writes her letters every day for a year and even rebuilds an old house for her. Although we heart Noah, it's pretty crazy to think that a guy would actually do all of that stuff! Now, an occasional letter (or text), and a ride on the ferris wheel with the guy next to you, is a bit more realistic - and still really sweet.

 

Chuck Bass (Gossip Girl)

When it comes to bad boys, Chuck Bass is boss. Suited up in designer threads, this super suave socialite has unlimited access to money, girls, and illicit substances. He's a sleazoid to the max, but for some reason his dirty deeds just make him that much hotter. We all want to make like Blair and be the one to uncover a bad guy's sensitive side and "save" him. But really, getting mixed up with someone who lies, cheats and does a helluva lot of iffy and even illegal stuff is never a good idea. So, while we'd totally trade places with Blair for her killer wardrobe, let's not forget about the amount of tears she's shed over Chuck. Bad boys may seem exciting and sexy - but they always disappoint.

 

Troy Bolton (High School Musical)

He can sing, dance, and play ball... oh, and did we mention he's mega hot? Plus he's popular, loyal and sensitive. There are not too many guys you could find with that awesome combo. Which is kinda the problem - Troy is just a little too perfect. Besides, when is a girl meant to find time for her friends, or even herself, with a guy like Troy constantly joined to her hip? Verdict: the best couples are those who work well apart as well as together.

 

True love

So, we've established that you shouldn't expect guys to want to, erm, suck your blood or dangle 20 metres above the ground to express their love. But here's what you should expect (and get) from a guy:

* Respect * Loyalty
* Communication * Interest
* Effort * Honesty * Trust